Tartan Basketball Captain Urges Keeping an Open Mind

Oakdale Patch reporter Jeff Roberts caught up with Ryan Burns, No. 45 senior captain of the boys basketball team, to talk about Kevin Love, competitiveness and keeping an open mind while playing for Tartan.

Oakdale Patch: How long have you been playing basketball?

Ryan Burns: I've been playing for as long as I can remember. I think since I was about 5 years old.

Oakdale Patch: Where did you begin your career?

Burns: I grew up in Oakdale and lived here my whole life. I love this community and I love this team.

Oakdale Patch: What do you love about the game?

Burns: I love the competitiveness. I love that you need five guys playing together and playing their best to win. I guess that's the whole idea of the game. I love all sports for that same reason: You're always trying to work together to be your best.

Oakdale Patch: Who do you look up to on the court?

Burns: Probably Kevin Love. My teammates sometimes call me "Baby Love" because my game is a little bit like his. I'm a bigger guy and I like to play tough. Or maybe it's because I look like him. I'm not sure.  

Oakdale Patch: Who do you look up to in life?

Burns: Probably my father. He has had a huge influence in my life. He has always supported me. He has always been there for me and pushed me to do my best.

Oakdale Patch: What do you do when you're not playing basketball?

Burns: I love playing pond hockey with friends. With skates and pads I'm a pretty imposing figure. Mostly I just love hanging out with my friends and supporting Tartan athletics whenever possible.

Oakdale Patch: What would you say to youngsters hoping to play in the Tartan basketball program?

Burns: I would encourage them to keep an open mind. It is a long road and it is pretty hard sometimes. Coach K (Klingsporn) demands your best. You have to always try your hardest if you ever want to play for him. Anything less than your best will not be good enough.   

Oakdale Patch: You're a senior and a captain of the team. What do you think makes this team work?

Burns: Everyone gets along really well—both on and off the court. I guess it comes down to togetherness. We love to play this game and we play hard for each other.